Trump's Six-Month Presidential Review: Approval Ratings Decline

As President Donald Trump reaches the six-month mark of his second term in office, he declares victories across various fronts. However, a CBS News poll indicates a significant drop in his approval ratings, particularly concerning his management of inflation and tariffs. The poll, conducted in mid-July 2025, reveals that nearly 60% of American voters disapprove of how Trump has handled inflation, an issue that remains at the forefront of economic concerns for many households across the nation.

Historically, presidential approval ratings tend to fluctuate based on economic performance and public perception. According to Dr. Sarah Johnson, Professor of Political Science at the University of California, Los Angeles, "Presidents often experience a honeymoon period early in their terms, but as economic challenges arise, approval ratings can swiftly decline. Trump's situation is no exception."

The CBS News poll highlights that 55% of respondents feel financially worse off than they did before Trump's presidency. This sentiment is echoed by numerous Americans who cite rising costs of living as a critical issue. For instance, the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) published a report in May 2025 detailing a 7% increase in consumer prices over the past year, further exacerbating public dissatisfaction.

In parallel, Trump's approach to tariffs has drawn criticism. More than 60% of respondents oppose the imposition of tariffs, which Trump has argued are necessary to protect American industries. However, experts like Dr. Michael Chen, an economist at the Brookings Institution, argue, "Tariffs can lead to higher prices for consumers and retaliation from trading partners, which can hurt the economy in the long run."

Amidst this backdrop, Trump remains adamant about his economic policies. In a recent social media post, he asserted, "If it weren’t for me, the Market wouldn’t be at Record Highs right now, it probably would have CRASHED!" This statement aligns with recent data from the S&P 500, which has reached new heights, despite broader economic concerns.

Furthermore, Trump's comments regarding Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell have ignited discussions about the administration's approach to monetary policy. Trump suggested he knows better than anyone what is best for the market, dismissing concerns about the potential repercussions of firing Powell. According to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, the move would likely face political and legal challenges. Bessent emphasized, "The Federal Reserve's independence is crucial for maintaining economic stability."

In light of these developments, the implications of Trump's declining approval ratings are significant. Political analysts forecast that if these trends continue, they could impact the Republican Party's performance in the upcoming elections, particularly in swing states where economic issues are pivotal.

Looking ahead, the outlook for Trump's presidency remains uncertain. With rising inflation and public discontent, his administration faces critical decisions that will shape the economic landscape and influence voter sentiment in the months to come. As the political climate evolves, both supporters and critics will be watching closely to see how Trump navigates these challenges in the lead-up to the next election cycle.